Share this video

Watch Next

Newcastle United favourite Steve Watson has revealed how he would love to join the coaching staff at his old club to help get them back into the Premier League.

He made his feelings known at a B&Q promo event in North Shields on Saturday where fans had the chance to pick his brains as he laid down a challenge as Euro 16 kicked off.

Shoppers were offered the chance to challenge the sporting hero off the pitch to a game of table football - and get his thoughts on all things footie.

And he revealed how his dream job would be back with the black and whites.

Steve said: “I would love to be part of the coaching team and getting the club where it should be.

“Obviously I am disappointed they have been relegated but I’m optimistic for them since the manager is staying.”

Former Newcastle United hero Steve Watson at B&Q in North Shields playing table football with staff and customers

Steve, who was born in North Shields and started his professional football career playing for the black and whites in 1990 - spent two hours at the store on Middle Engine Lane, giving customers a chance to meet, greet and try to beat their local sporting idol.

His appearance coincided with the Three Lions playing Russia in Marseille on the same day.

And on Euro 2016 he said: “I am really confident, in fact I’m getting excited, as we clearly do. I think we have talented young players and a good captain.”

Steve played alongside some big names from overseas during his stint at Newcastle.

And he dovetailed well with the likes of David Ginola , Tino Asprilla and Philippe Albert as United came close to silverware under Kevin Keegan.

Fans were all too eager to get his views on United being relegated and how England would do in Euro 2016. While some of his supporters were just keen to get a few tips on ball skills from their hero.

Steve Watson with Jo Cartwright who is a former NUFC Womens player

Ex Newcastle United women’s team player Jo Cartwright, 37, of Newcastle, admits Steve was one of her favourites.

She said: “He’s a local lad, a bit of a success story. I’ve met him quite a few times now, I used to go to the Durham training ground. It’s great to see him again.”

Rajan said: “I brought some pictures I had taken with Steve at the Durham training ground and I’ve kept them for years. I brought them today so Steve could eventually sign them.”

Steve Watson with Arjun Nair 10 of Heaton

Arjun said: “Steve Watson is one of my dad’s favourite players and it was nice to meet him.”

Dad-of-six John Finnie, 45, of High Heaton, Newcastle, said: “I had a chat with Steve about the coming season and he is optimistic, but it is a tougher league to get out of. We’ll keep our fingers crossed and hope for the best.”

B&Q North Shields’ Store Manager, Eddie Smith said: “It’s been so exciting to have local footie legend, Steve Watson, in-store - especially with England’s first Euro 2016 match being the same day.

“You don’t get to pick the brains of your heroes every day and it’s been great to get his expert opinion on how he thinks the tournament will go.

“We’re all massive footie fans here. All our customers and staff have enjoyed having the chance to beat him on the field as well – even if it is only the table football field.”